Gas without condensation at common operating pressures and temperatures where the predominant component is methane with some ethane and small amounts of heavier hydrocarbons. The gas composition can vary depending on the source of natural gas and the processing of the gas. Typical composition in volume Methane 94.0%, Ethane 4.7%, Propane 0.8%, Butane 0.2%, Nitrogen 0.3%. Density liquid 0.45kg/dm3, Calorific value (low) 49.5MJ/kg, Methane number 83.
The gas may be stored and distributed as compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG).